Fredrick "Rick" Zevchik's Obituary
Phillipians 4:13 -- I can do all through him who strengthens me.
Fredrick J. Zevchik (Rick) was born July 30, 1947 to Fred and Ann in Cleveland, Ohio. Being the oldest of three children, he leaves behind Wally (Karen) and Joan Howells (Rick). Rick approached life with strength, determination and endurance. He impacted everyone that had the privilege of being in his life and was always willing to lend a helping hand to anyone and anytime. He taught us the importance of faith and his love for family and friends. Rick proved to all of us to never give up and always set a goal and keep trying and nothing was impossible. He was a planner and great decision maker; and made his thoughts be known to all of his family (whether we wanted it or not)!
He was a member of St. Martin of Tours in Valley City where he and Gayle enjoyed attending Saturday evening mass and made many friends while sitting in the last row of church.
Rick proudly worked for CEI/First Energy for approximately 36 years as an electrician/electrical supervisor. His co-workers became close friends that still kept in touch with him to the very end.
Rick and Gayle met at Byzantine Catholic High School and attended all their proms as a couple. Rick was an amazing drummer in a band called “The Knights” and they played at the school dances, battle of the bands and many, many weddings. Rick and Gayle (“the love of his life”, he said), celebrated 47 years together on June 14. They enjoyed camping with the kids and traveling.
Rick was a very hard worker and worked two jobs for many years to support their three beautiful children, Rick (Michelle), Kevin (Kara) and Heidi DeBolt (Scott). One of Rick’s prize possessions was his grandchildren; Zachary (19), Sierra (13), Avalena (9), Faith (7) and Rocco (6); as well as his step-grandchildren Kylie (18), Arianna (21) and Cole (18).
Rick had a passion for Nascar racing and Corvettes that was shared not only with his family but with his longtime childhood friend, George. We can just imagine the shenanigans in heaven now that they have been reunited!!
Rick bravely battled a 14 year paralysis that never kept him down. Have wheelchair, must travel! For the past year and 7 months he fought to regain his independence; but the fight proved to overcome his strength. Rick peacefully joined our loved ones in heaven on August 9, 2016, surrounded by his family. The Lord has given him wings and new legs to walk and run in “glory”!
Rick will be deeply missed by his immediate family, grandchildren, many nieces and nephews, and a slew of friends; and of course by his furry buddy “Dixie”.
Rest in peace Rick. It is now your time to enjoy true happiness and all of God’s glory.
Written with Love by Joannie and Gayle
VISITATION 4-8 PM FRIDAY at JARDINE FUNERAL HOME 15822 PEARL ROAD, STRONGVILLE. Funeral Mass 11 AM Saturday at St. Martin of Tours Church, Valley City. Interment Eastlawn Memory Gardens. www.jardinefh.com
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